NewsGate Press Network

If all goes as planned the long pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Commission (EU) is all set to be completed before the end of 2025.

This was decided between the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the visiting President of the EU Ursula von der Leyen in the National Capital on 28th of February 2025.

The EU delegation is in India on a two-day visit invited by the Prime Minister.

Both the leaders apart from setting a timeline to finish the FTA task also decided to have regular review meeting with partners countries along the India-Middle East-Europe route.

In a Joint Statement release after meeting also expressed early peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

“They expressed support for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on respect for international law, principles of the UN charter and territorial integrity and sovereignty. They also reiterated their commitment to the vision of the two-State solution with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security within recognized borders, consistent with international law.”

The Leaders agreed on the following concrete steps:

(i) Expedite the conclusion of the FTA by the end of the year.

(ii) Further focused discussions on defence industry and policy to explore opportunities from new initiatives and programmes.

(iii) A review meeting with partners to take stock on the IMEC initiative.

(iv) Engage on maritime domain awareness with a view to promoting shared assessment, coordination and interoperability.

(v) Convene the next meeting of the Trade and Technology Council at an early date to deepen cooperation in semiconductors and other critical technologies.

(vi) Enhance the dialogue on clean and green energy between governments and industry, with a focus on green hydrogen.

(vii) Strengthening collaboration in the Indo-Pacific including through trilateral cooperation projects.

(viii) Strengthen cooperation on Disaster Management through the development of appropriate arrangements including on policy and technical level engagement for preparedness, response capacities and coordination.

The MEA spokesperson said in a post on X:

“Marking a new phase in India-EU relations.

“PM @narendramodi held productive talks with the President of the @EU_Commission @vonderleyen & the EU College of Commissioners today. They set an ambitious agenda for 2025 and beyond.

“Both sides committed to deepening engagement in trade, investment, technology & innovation, clean & green energy, connectivity and people-people ties.”

The European Commission President said in a post on X:

“Dear @narendramodi, thank you so much for hosting us in New Delhi.

“The @EU_Commission’s visit symbolises how much we value our partnership with India.

“And how much I value our personal friendship.”